Welcome Geologists!

Rocks and Minerals: Mock Rocks

Welcome Geologists!

Rocks and Minerals: Mock Rocks

What is geology?

The study of the materials that make up planet Earth is called geology. Geologists are scientists who study planet Earth. One thing that a geologists studies about Earth is its rocks. Rocks are among the materials that make up Earth.

Derivation Study

Combine these Greek roots...

-ology = "the study of"

-ologist = "a person who studies"

...with these.

ento- = "insects"

bio- = "life"

geo- = "earth"

In your journal:

What do the words "geology" and "geologist" mean?

Journal Quick Write

All substances have properties that we can identify. For example, we can identify a person by their face, their voice, height, fingerprints, DNA, etc. The more of these properties we can identify, the better we know the person. In the same way, matter has properties. (Matter is anything that has mass and takes up space.) Geologists make detailed observations of the rocks they want to study. They start with observations, because when they test the rock, the rock is usually changed in some way, and geologists want to be able to compare the change with the rock before the test.

Quick Write in your journal:

What are the properties a geologist might use to describe rocks? In other words, what might a geologist observe about rocks?

Mock Rocks

Our Task

We will practice our geologist skills by practicing observing the properties of mock rocks - a rock simulation. Remember that when geologists test rocks, the rock is usually changed in some way. We want to be able to compare the change with the rock before the test. Our job today is to record detailed observations of our mock rocks. We will do nothing to our mock rocks today to change them! No breaking!

Our Tools

Hand Lens

Geologists use a hand lens is used to make magnified observations. Use this to get a closer look at your mock rock.

Meter Tape

Geologists use a meter tape to make measurements of rocks. You will be measuring the diameter, circumference, and depth of your mock rock.

Eyes

You already have your most important tool for observation - your eyes! Look very carefully!

Hand Lens

Geologists use a hand lens is used to make magnified observations. Use this to get a closer look at your mock rock.

Meter Tape

Geologists use a meter tape to make measurements of rocks. You will be measuring the diameter, circumference, and depth of your mock rock.

Eyes

You already have your most important tool for observation - your eyes! Look very carefully!